Transport Canada PPHEL study plan

List the eligibility requirements and application steps for obtaining a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC) and identify the documents you must carry on board.

Define the key terms in the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and the Small Vessel Regulations that apply to pleasure craft, such as 'pleasure craft', 'operator', and 'vessel'.

Memorize the registration and licensing thresholds: when a pleasure craft must be licensed versus registered, and how to display the licence number.

Identify the safety equipment required by length and vessel type from the Small Vessel Regulations (e.g., lifejackets, fire extinguishers, flares, anchor).

Explain the Collision Regulations (COLREGS) rules for right-of-way, including power-driven versus sail, overtaking, and head-on situations.

Describe the meaning and required action for each navigational light and shape (e.g., sidelights, masthead light, sternlight, ball-diamond-ball).

Interpret the standard sound signals for maneuvering and warning in both inland and international waters.

Apply the rules for safe speed, look-out, and risk of collision in practical scenarios.

Demonstrate the steps for leaving and returning to a dock in various wind and current conditions.

List the procedures for anchoring, including selecting an anchorage, setting the anchor, and checking for drag.

Explain how to handle a vessel in following seas, head seas, and beam seas, and when to adjust speed or course.

Identify the factors that affect turning, stopping distance, and maneuverability (e.g., propeller walk, hull type, load).

List the steps to take in a man-overboard situation, including immediate actions, recovery maneuvers, and communication.

Describe the procedures for responding to a fire aboard, a flooding emergency, and abandoning ship.

Explain the correct use of flares, distress signals, and mayday/pan-pan calls on a VHF radio.

Identify the hypothermia risks and the treatment steps for cold-water immersion.

Interpret marine weather forecasts and identify sources (e.g., Environment Canada, VHF Weatheradio, apps).

Recognize signs of changing weather and local effects such as squalls, fog, and thunderstorms.

Explain how to read tide and current tables and how they affect navigation and anchoring.

Describe basic seamanship skills: knots (bowline, cleat hitch, reef knot), line handling, and securing a vessel.

List the regulations prohibiting discharge of garbage, sewage, and oil from pleasure craft, and identify the required placards.

Explain the threats of aquatic invasive species and the clean-drain-dry protocol for boats and trailers.

Describe boating etiquette around shorelines, swimmers, and other boaters, including wake control and noise reduction.

Identify sensitive habitats (e.g., eelgrass beds, bird nesting areas) and the rules for operating near them.

Review the pre-departure checklist and explain the importance of a float plan, including what information it should contain.

Describe the effects of alcohol, fatigue, and medications on boating performance and the associated legal consequences.

Explain the loading and weight distribution limits for a pleasure craft and how to avoid overloading.

Identify the maintenance checks for engine, fuel system, and electrical systems before launch.

Take a full-length practice exam under timed conditions and review every incorrect answer.

Revisit weak areas identified in the practice exam and summarize key rules in your own words.

Memorize the key numbers: age and horsepower restrictions, distance from shore for sewage discharge, and flare expiry dates.

Finalize your on-board document and equipment kit according to the Small Vessel Regulations.